The IHC Group Announces Short Term Medical Product Change

03-23-2020

The IHC Group is committed to continue offering short-term limited duration medical plans (STM) (plans underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company (IAIC)) as an option to those who cannot purchase insurance through the ACA marketplace due to timing or affordability. It is important to focus on providing insurance plans that deliver on affordability and meaningful coverage in the event of an unforeseen accident or illness.

We are choosing at this time to suspend sales of our Connect Value and Connect Value Extend STM plans. As of 4:00 p.m. PST March 24, 2020, we will not accept any applications for these plan options. This does not affect our other STM plan options, including Connect STM, Connect STM Extend or Connect Plus; they will remain available. Connect Plus plans will still offer limited benefits for pre-existing conditions. Our plans do not have waiting periods before illnesses are covered but please note that normal pre-existing condition limits will apply.

The Connect STM plan has a $2M maximum benefit per coverage period, and additional coverage options. We are very pleased with the initial results of our medical bill repricing changes on Connect STM in bringing down the costs for our insureds. We are backing that up with patient advocacy services to help navigate the system. At a time when providers do not have a blueprint for billing certain health care services, we believe the advocacy and negotiation services offered through Connect STM are very valuable.

We appreciate our business relationship with you and your commitment to the STM market. Affordable health insurance is important now more than ever. If you have any questions about this decision, contact BUA